We know just how much a fabric sofa can go through... From red wine spills during Friday night telly binges, to muddy pawprints and biscuit crumbs tucked into the cushions, your sofa really does see it all. At Seep, we’re all about finding better and more natural ways to clean, so before you panic, take a deep breath. Here’s everything you need to know about how to clean a fabric sofa naturally using items you’ve already got tucked away in your kitchen cupboards.
Start With a Label Check
Let’s begin with the basics. Almost all sofas have a cleaning code somewhere usually hidden under the cushions or on a tag along the base. These are little letters that tell you what’s safe to use. Here's a quick decode:
W – Water-Based Cleaners Only
You can use anything with a water base, like a mix of warm water and washing-up liquid or natural sprays with vinegar.
Do use: Homemade cleaners, fabric-safe soap, bicarb
Avoid: Solvents or alcohol-based products
S – Solvent-Based Cleaners Only
No water is allowed here. Use a dry cleaning solution or something like rubbing alcohol.
Do use: Solvent sprays, isopropyl alcohol
Avoid: Anything water-based – even natural cleaners
WS – Water or Solvent-Based Cleaners
You’ve got options. For everyday mess, use a gentle water-based cleaner or a solvent for stubborn stains.
Do use: DIY natural mixes or solvent sprays
X – Vacuum Only
This fabric doesn’t like moisture of any kind. Stick to hoovering and dry tools.
Do use: Hoover with an upholstery attachment, lint roller
Avoid: All liquids – even just a damp cloth
If you’re unsure, always test your cleaner on a hidden spot first.
Hoover Like You Mean It
This might seem like an obvious one, but giving your sofa a proper once-over with the hoover is a great first step. Use an upholstery attachment if you’ve got one, and go over every surface – cushions, seams, the back, and all the awkward corners. You’ll be amazed (and maybe slightly horrified) by what you find.
Top tip: For pet hair and bits that refuse to budge, a lint roller or a slightly damp rubber glove can work wonders. Just rub it over the surface to lift stubborn fluff.
Baking Soda to the Rescue
Baking soda is a gentle, natural cleaner that can tackle odours and surface grime without fuss.
Sprinkle a generous amount over the entire sofa and cushions, and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes. This gives it time to absorb smells, oils, and any mysterious sofa scents.
Once it’s had a rest, hoover everything off using your brush attachment. The result? A fresher, cleaner-smelling sofa without a single chemical in sight.
DIY Spot Cleaner for Stains
For those "oh no" moments involving tea spills or toddler artwork, you’ll want a natural stain remover. Here’s a little DIY mix that works a treat:
What you’ll need:
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1 tablespoon white vinegar
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1 tablespoon eco-friendly washing-up liquid
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2 cups warm water
Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently blot the stain (don’t rub - we’re not trying to make it worse). Then, use another cloth dampened with plain water to lift off any leftover suds, and let the spot air dry... Avoid letting the spot sit until it’s bone dry.
If your sofa is water-safe and the stains are stubborn, you can let the solution sit for a few minutes before blotting again.
Dealing With Strong Smells? Bring Out the Vinegar
White vinegar is brilliant at neutralising unpleasant odours, even if its scent isn’t the nicest straight out of the bottle.
Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly spritz your sofa. Not soak – just mist. Leave it to air dry naturally with a window open. As it dries, the vinegar smell disappears and takes the pong with it.
You can do this every couple of months to keep your sofa smelling fresh.
Maintain the Magic
Once your sofa is looking (and smelling) its best, here are a few habits to help it stay that way:
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Flip and fluff cushions weekly to even out wear
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Use throws for extra protection from spills, pets and snack attacks
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Treat stains straight away, even if it’s just a splash of water to start with
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Keep a small soft-bristled brush nearby, great for brushing off crumbs and refreshing the fabric between cleans
So, there we are, your full guide on how to clean a fabric sofa naturally.
It’s really about working with what you’ve got at home, being a little patient, and keeping on top of the mess before it becomes a mammoth task. Your sofa deserves a bit of love, and luckily, that doesn’t have to mean splashing out or using anything nasty.
Ready to tackle the sofa?
